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Synonym Chooser

How is the word peaceful different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of peaceful are calm, placid, serene, and tranquil. While all these words mean "quiet and free from disturbance," peaceful implies a state of repose in contrast with or following strife or turmoil.

grown peaceful in old age

In what contexts can calm take the place of peaceful?

The synonyms calm and peaceful are sometimes interchangeable, but calm often implies a contrast with a foregoing or nearby state of agitation or violence.

the protests ended, and the streets were calm again

When could placid be used to replace peaceful?

In some situations, the words placid and peaceful are roughly equivalent. However, placid suggests an undisturbed appearance and often implies a degree of complacency.

remained placid despite the criticism

When would serene be a good substitute for peaceful?

The words serene and peaceful can be used in similar contexts, but serene stresses an unclouded and lofty tranquility.

watched the sunset of a serene summer's evening

When can tranquil be used instead of peaceful?

Although the words tranquil and peaceful have much in common, tranquil suggests a very deep quietude or composure.

the tranquil beauty of a formal garden

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of peaceful Tensions surrounding this election reflect deeper frustration over economic stagnation, political exclusion, and rising authoritarianism in a country that has not seen a peaceful transfer of power since independence. Amir Daftari, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 Oct. 2025 In between poses, Levine had captured the Queen with her eyes closed, looking peaceful and relaxed. Meredith Kile, PEOPLE, 27 Oct. 2025 The Sequoia Park Zoo emphasized that the event did not highlight conflict between the wild bears and those in captivity, but rather a peaceful coexistence. Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 26 Oct. 2025 For those who’d prefer to stick around Joshua Tree, the Bungalows at Homestead Modern are an attractive place to stay, with their mid-century design and peaceful location. AFAR Media, 24 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for peaceful
Recent Examples of Synonyms for peaceful
Adjective
  • There’s also no strategic plan or national campaign in place that assures nonviolent resisters that their involvement is part of a grand strategy.
    Michael Shank, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 Oct. 2025
  • The nonviolent protest at the Common on Saturday took place after last week’s pro-Palestinian rally in which protesters assaulted Boston Police officers, one of whom suffered a broken nose that required reconstructive surgery.
    Lance Reynolds, Boston Herald, 19 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • With stunning celerity, possibility becomes probability and then certainty, as readers reject the quiet, circuitous, and unglamorous narratives of prudential compromise, ambiguous diplomacy, or incremental progress.
    Elizabeth D. Samet, Foreign Affairs, 29 Oct. 2025
  • Still, this isn’t about contemplation or quiet reflection.
    Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 29 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Long, flowing lines and a neutral palette create calm, tranquil vibes throughout, while expansive windows invite light in and offer views out.
    Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 22 Oct. 2025
  • Visitors also discovered a Zen Room with agarwood scents, cushions and bell chimes, offering a tranquil pause before returning to the bustle of Paris.
    Footwear News, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Imposing granite cliff faces like Half Dome and El Capitan, serene meadows and forests, and the picturesque Merced River, all tend to come to mind.
    Cu Fleshman, Travel + Leisure, 25 Oct. 2025
  • Researchers at the University of Arizona later observed that green light—which is strongly reflected at us by plants—also triggers a release of natural opioids, promoting a serene state.
    Rowan Jacobsen, Harpers Magazine, 24 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Courtesy: Apple Apple on Tuesday sent invites to the media and analysts for a launch event at its campus on September 9 at 10 A.M pacific time.
    Kif Leswing, CNBC, 26 Aug. 2025
  • My late grandfather, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, served in the pacific campaign.
    Simon Perry, People.com, 19 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Instead, the United States should continue to take no position on the ultimate outcome of cross-strait differences, insisting only on a peaceable process.
    STEPHEN WERTHEIM, Foreign Affairs, 28 Oct. 2025
  • If peaceable trading isn't your dream, consider the corsair life, pillaging other ships for their precious cargo.
    Alan Bradley, Space.com, 7 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Just the name inspires dreams of a plush mattress that will cocoon your body into a state of restful slumber and easy dreaming.
    Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 21 Oct. 2025
  • That’s why, Manaker added, swallowing a spoonful of honey—on its own or stirred into warm water—before bed may lead to a more restful sleep.
    Julia Ries Wexler, Health, 20 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Some time before the series’ start, a virus swept the globe and made everyone content and placid.
    Bethy Squires, Vulture, 22 Oct. 2025
  • In a small town like Harding, a crime involving local children of local families shatters the relatively placid and usually numb routines of daily life.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 16 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Peaceful.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/peaceful. Accessed 4 Nov. 2025.

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